Low peripheral perfusion: The cause of pressure sores in patients after open-heart surgery

Pressure sores occurring in patients undergoing open-heart surgery have been accepted as "accidental diathermy burns". This etiologic factor is an incorrect explanation. The mechanism must be similar to the one causing urethral strictures in these patients, namely, low peripheral perfusion during "pump time". Statistical workup is not available to determine the exact magnitude of the problem, but there seems to be a difference in incidence in various cardiac surgery units. Most of the sores heal spontaneously. Prevention is strongly advocated.